Nik walked slowly through the castle, not entirely sure where he was headed. It was one of those days where the wind was from the North, and the snow was blowing heavily. Most everyone was content to hide indoors, but he found himself restless and a bit lonely.

Normally he would sit with his brothers, making plans for improvements around the kingdom for the upcoming summer, or even just enjoying spending time and talking together. But today of all days, Johan had ventured into the city to call on the lady he had his eyes set on. Aksel...well, he wasn't entirely certain where his youngest brother was, but he had an idea. He was young; what else would a young man do on a cold winter's day?

Nik found himself standing at Aaron's office door. It was open, so he knocked politely on the frame before entering.

"My King," Aaron turned and rose, bowing slightly. "What may I do for you?"

Nik hesitated for a moment. What could Aaron do? "Actually, I came to see if there were any matters I might be able to take care of today. My brothers are otherwise engaged, and there are no petitioners for court, so I suddenly find myself with some free time," he explained.

Aaron nodded solemnly. "I understand, sire. There is actually no official business to see to," he explained, then reached to a stack of papers. "However, this arrived early this morning, just before the storm hit. It's addressed to you personally," he smiled knowingly. Aaron knew the seal well; his King had been receiving many letters from her over the last few months.

Nik glanced at the letter Aaron held, then snatched it away from him quickly. "Thank you, Aaron. I believe that will be all." He bolted before Aaron had a chance to bow, rushing to his study.

He closed the door harder than he meant to, but he didn't care. He threw himself into the chair and opened the letter; he desperately wanted to see what she had to say.

'Dearest Nik,

Your snow battles are something I would surely like to watch, I feel like I am growing to know you more and would like to see this playful side. Surely the King of the North remains always the proper gentleman! I am glad to hear that you interact so well with your people. I strive to grow a strong relationship with those I rule but fear that the presence of my powers has built a gulf that will take much to cross. I am dedicated to bridging that expanse.

I told Kristoff about the snow mover and he is interested in seeing this work. If the mountain passes were not still too treacherous to pass I'm sure he would be on his reindeer steed headed to see immediately. Anna has persuaded him to practice some patience and wait until travel conditions have improved. I'm sure word will spread quickly and popularity will grow fast.

I find comfort in knowing I am not alone talking to your portrait. I do hope that any maidens you are pursuing do not take offense to our friendship. I value what we have built and hope that we can maintain a strong friendship for our kingdoms after you marry. I understand that with both of your younger brothers taking interest in ladies you will soon be expected to marry and provide an heir to your throne. I only hope that you are not forced into an arranged marriage; a marriage without love would be a sad reason to celebrate. I am thankful that my parents never arranged for any such false agreement. I do wonder if it would have made my life as Queen easier though. My people would have a normal ruler they could look to.

I am sure you will have the role of father and uncle to fill quickly and I will ask your counsel then. It seems Anna is without child and Kristoff is preparing for spring's arrival so he will be gone often securing the ice trade. I fear what will become of me with an un-distracted sister to deal with. I may have to send her to Corona to burn off energy with our cousin, I'm sure helping to plan a coronation would be a productive outlet for Anna's energy.

I will admit to having penned a short list of questions that I want to ask your friend when we meet. Would it be rude of me to ask his name? I know the names of your closest family members, I would like to know his name as well.

Olaf has begun the official countdown to summer, though I think he'll begin it even earlier next year. I fear he will begin after the last day of this summer. He is wandering the castle humming a tune and talking about tanning on the beach. Without a magical flurry to keep him from melting he would be in grave trouble. He has no concern for his safety and would rather lounge by a fire than wander outside in the cold. He has started planning summer activities he hopes to accomplish this year. I am hoping for a long summer so as to not disappoint him. I am exhausted hearing his list, let alone thinking of accompanying him on his quests.

I wish you continued success in your snow battles. Anna and Kristoff have been busy with building their family and being newlyweds so I have had far too much time to myself lately. Once the winter holiday and New Year passed I have found myself lonely more often. Please enjoy some extra fun with your brothers before they (and yourself) undoubtedly gain a lady's hand in marriage. I miss those times with Anna and wished I would have savored them more.

Yours truly,

Elsa'

He set the letter down and turned to her portrait. "Oh Elsa. If you only knew. If only I could lay it all out to you now. I'll find a reason to visit you soon, and I promise to explain it all then. For now, though, another letter will have to suffice." With that, he picked up his pen and began to write, the entire time wondering what excuse he would have to concoct to travel to Arendelle.